Are you in need of a printer that can handle large-scale printing jobs with ease? Look no further than wide format printers. These printers are designed to handle a variety of printing needs, from banners and posters to maps and architectural drawings.

With their advanced technology and high-quality output, these printers offer a reliable and cost-effective solution for businesses. As per the latest report by Kings Research, the global Wide Format Printers Market is expected to garner USD 15.02 billion in revenue by 2030, expanding at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.39% from 2023 to 2030.

So let's dive deeper into the world of wide format printers and discover what makes them the go-to choice for large-scale printing.

Print Big, Dream Big: Wide Format Printers for Your Biggest Ideas

Wide format printers, which utilize either Inkjet or laser technology, are devices designed to print on large paper rolls. These printers offer a high degree of versatility as they can accommodate different types of media and printing resolutions.

These printers are used in print production for large promotional materials, such as banners, posters, and trade show graphics. They offer flexibility in size and proportions, making them ideal for businesses creating customized marketing materials. Having an in-house printer allows businesses to handle larger-scale projects without relying on external companies, allowing them to control the final product's aesthetic independently.

Types of Wide Format Printers for High-Quality Prints on a Massive Scale

Different types of wide format printers are available in the market, here are some of them along with their applications in the printing industry:

• Aqueous Inkjet Printers

An aqueous inkjet printer utilizes water-based ink, offering excellent detail and user-friendliness. It is currently the predominant technology for large-format printers, applicable to both indoor and outdoor materials. This printer is commonly preferred for printing large-format photographs, trade show materials, and other high-detail images.

• Solvent Printers

Solvent printers produce prints that are resistant to water, sunlight, and human touch and are durable. These printers are primarily used for outdoor applications like banners, billboards, and vehicle graphics. They are particularly suitable for printing on flexible, uncoated vinyl substrates. When setting up a solvent printer, it is necessary to have an effective ventilation system in place to eliminate volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by the solvents.

• Dye Sublimation Printers

Dye sublimation printers employ a printing technique that uses heat to transfer dye onto various materials like cards, plastic, fabrics, and paper. The prints become dry immediately after leaving the printer. These printers are widely used in decorating garments, banners, signs, and other items with sublimation-friendly surfaces.

• UV-Cured Printers

UV-cured printers, also known as UV ink-jet printers, are designed to produce highly resilient prints by using polymers as ink. These printers can print on virtually any surface, leading to exceptionally durable images. Unlike traditional printers, UV printers do not rely on coated media, which helps minimize costs. They use ink that does not dissolve but is cured using ultraviolet light.

• Latex Printers

Latex printers are highly advanced printing devices that produce long-lasting prints suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. They utilize the latest innovations in the inkjet industry, namely latex inks and resin-based inks. Since latex inks are water-based, they are environment-friendly. Unlike other types of ink, the water-based nature of latex ink eliminates the need for additional ventilation during the printing process.

Innovations in Wide Format Printers That Can Turn Your Vision into Reality

Here are some latest innovations in wide format printers that are transforming the printing process:

1. UltraChrome UV Ink System Printers

Epson has developed the SureColor SC-V7000, its inaugural UV wide format printer, empowering sign and display manufacturers to diversify its range of offerings. This printer delivers outstanding image quality and provides the versatility to print on various types of media. Its primary purpose is to produce visually appealing retail and outdoor signage, window displays, hoarding panels, packaging, promotional items, and decorative products. The printer incorporates Epson's exclusive UltraChrome UV ink system, which includes red, gray, white, and varnish options.

2. Roll-to-Roll Sign & Display Printer

Agfa, a Belgium-based printing solution provider, has also created a collection of advanced printers specifically designed for printing on textiles. Northern Flags, one of the leading fabric printers in the UK, has made a strategic investment in an Anapurna roll-to-roll sign and display printer, Avinci fabric-printing engines, and an Asanti workflow solution for its facility in Leeds. With a range of options available, each Agfa printer provides unique advantages, allowing Northern Flags to choose the most suitable machine for each fabric and printing task it encounters.

3. CMYK Color Printers

The SwissQprint Kudu is designed to produce at a rate of over 340 m2/hr in either roll-to-roll or flatbed mode, providing a significant productivity improvement. CMYKLcLm ink setup and 10 color channels, including white, varnish, neon yellow, and pink, were specified together with the Kudu for MediaCo in Manchester, who chose it after conducting a thorough review. Boards and sheet materials, films, banners, mesh as well as other roll stock up to 180kg, are easily handled with the roll-to-roll and dual roll possibilities.

The Evolution of Wide Format Printers in the Digital Age

Innovation has made the wide format printing industry more visible than ever. In the era of digitalization across various industries, wide format printing is also witnessing a huge shift toward the digital world. Scanners are a common part of the wide format printing solution, promoting easy integration and digital workflows.

One significant trend in printers is the incorporation of laser scanners with a single array. This innovative technology allows accuracy and rapid printing, improving productivity and quality of prints. Despite the ongoing digitalization, there continues to be a significant demand for physical prints. This demand is primarily fueled by the flourishing commercial sector, the real estate industry, and the requirement for novel print applications on diverse materials.

Think Big with Wide Format Printers

Wide format printers are a game-changer for businesses and individuals looking to produce high-quality prints on a large scale. With their advanced technology and versatile capabilities, these printers offer a cost-effective and efficient solution for a broad range of printing needs.

From creating stunning marketing materials to producing detailed architectural plans, these printers can handle it all with precision and ease. So, investing in a wide format printer can take your business to the next level by providing high-quality prints on a grand scale.